What is a Mitsubishi MU-2?
Originally published May 15, 2004 The Mitsubishi MU-2 is a fast, cheap cargo plane, with two propellers, cigar-shaped fuel tanks at the ends of its wings – and a lengthy record of 183 accidents causing almost 200 deaths over the past 36 years.
What is the fuel system like on a MU-2?
The MU-2 systems were designed more like a transport aircraft than a light business airplane. Across the board, they are very robust. The fuel system is straight forward, with the engines feeding off the wing tanks located above them, and all other fuel replacing the fuel used from those tanks.
What does the MU-2 have to offer?
On the wing tips are fuel tanks much like those found on the Lear series of aircraft. These tanks provide for extended range and are found on all MU-2s. The large vertical tail and rudder provide plenty of directional control in cross wind and engine out situations. The MU-2 comes in two basic varieties: short body and long body models.
When did the MU-2 first fly?
Designed as a light twin turboprop transport suitable for a variety of civil and military roles, the MU-2 first flew on 14 September 1963. This first MU-2, and the three MU-2As built, were powered by the Turbomeca Astazou turboprop.